Summer holidays, at home or abroad, should be all about fun, relaxation and enjoying a complete change of scene.
But whether we’re holidaying in a yurt on a remote Scottish island or jetting off for a ‘fly and flop’ week in Ibiza, it helps to have some idea of the kind of break we’re looking for.
Booking a package holiday online is pretty simple and straightforward and is something we can usually do ourselves. There are occasions, though, when we want something more personalised, especially if we’re looking for a multi-centre holiday, a wedding or honeymoon destination or simply heading off the beaten track.
As industry professionals, travel consultants have in-depth knowledge of tourist places and can give recommendations based on their own expertise and experience. Tailoring itineraries to meet individual preferences, they can often access exclusive deals and offers through their connections. They can also help customers compare prices, finding them the best value and taking the legwork and strain out of researching and planning a trip.
Travel consultant apprenticeship
For those pursuing a career in this field via an apprenticeship, there’s the level 3 travel consultant apprenticeship. Typically taking 12 months to 24 months depending on prior attainment, the course covers all the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to work in corporate travel consultancy as well as in the leisure travel market.
Last updated in January 2023, this programme attracts government funding up to a maximum £7,000, with eight training providers currently offering it across England. Major industry players such as global tourism group TUI, online travel agent Thomas Cook, business travel specialist BCD Travel, the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) and the Guild of Travel Management Companies (GTMC), were all involved in creating the standard, with ABTA and GTMC approving its content.
Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours
Travel consultants, whether they’re dealing with corporate clients or holidaymakers, must deliver consistently high levels of customer service. They need to be great communicators, solving and foreseeing any problems and thinking on their feet to guide customers through often complex travel arrangements.
Those working in the corporate travel sector also need a clear understanding of the unique cost and time pressures associated with travelling for business. They have to be aware of their clients’ budgetary constraints and tailor itineraries accordingly.
Leisure travel consultants work in a fast-paced sales environment which is highly customer focused. It’s an incredibly competitive sector so they must stay on top of their game, seeking, spotting and promoting opportunities for new and different leisure experiences. Many people prefer to think of themselves as travellers rather than tourists, with more customers now seeking sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional tourism.
Skills, knowledge and behaviours the level 3 travel consultant apprentice must have include:
Additionally, apprentices are expected to keep bang up to date with world current affairs and be aware of any unfolding political situations or weather events that could hamper or disrupt people’s travel plans. They must also take a keen interest in travel industry developments, always keeping their professional knowledge updated.
Where next?
Successful completion of this level 3 programme can take an apprentice a long way. Destinations include leadership and specialist travel roles and potentially higher-level training leading to management careers.
Reaching your destination with Onefile
There’s quite a lot here to unpack (and pack!) Fortunately, Onefile’s leading edtech software is here for every stage of a travel apprentice’s journey, helping them to smoothly reach their ultimate destination as a qualified travel consultant.